DEAR BOB: After our mother died in August 2003, my brother and I inherited her assets, which consisted mainly of her house plus stocks and bonds. Her will left everything to us equally. But the estate had to go through probate court proceedings. We just received title to her home recently and listed the house for sale with a local Realtor. Meanwhile, the house was vacant, costing us upkeep expenses. The only good thing resulting from the probate court delay is the house appreciated about $100,000 in market value. more...
